Mexican delegation from San Miguel de Allende to visit Vail this week

A delegation from San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, is headed to Vail this week to continue discussions about forming a partnership between the two resorts. The visit is taking place July 16-20 and is being hosted by Mayor Andy Daly and other town officials. The discussions follow a visit to San Miguel de Allende in May by a delegation from Vail.

The itinerary for the reciprocal visit this week includes a special Town Council meeting from 10 to 11:30 a.m.Friday, July 17 in the Vail Town Council Chambers to review a draft Sisterhood Agreement. The one-year agreement outlines numerous partnerships between the two resorts, including educational, environmental and cultural exchanges, as well as identification of tourism and promotional opportunities. Members of the community are encouraged to attend the special meeting to learn more about San Miguel de Allende and the various cooperative opportunities. The agenda is available online at vailpublic.novusagenda.com and there will be an opportunity for public comment at the meeting.

The group will also take part in a walking tour at 2 p.m.on Friday led by Community Development Director George Ruther and Art in Public Places Coordinator Molly Eppard. Other activities include an art gallery tour on Saturday afternoon originating from Masters Gallery and a Bravo! Vail concert at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater later in the evening.

Surrounded by mountains at an elevation of 7,000 feet, San Miguel is located in the state of Guanajuato about 170 miles northeast of Mexico City. Founded in 1541, San Miguel de Allende is best known for its art and cultural influences. Historic buildings feature Colonial and Spanish architecture that date from the 17th and 18th centuries. The city has since evolved from an agricultural center to an international tourism destination with a vibrant art scene, culinary offerings and cultural festivals.

Most notably, San Miguel has become a popular destination for many of Vail’s Mexican guests and second homeowners and the potential for a relationship with San Miguel is seen as an opportunity to further strengthen Vail’s relationship with its Mexican guests.

Mayor Daly says the hospitality given to the Vail delegation during their visit in May and the shared tourism focus exhibited by San Miguel lends itself to a unique partnership. “We have a wonderful opportunity to explore a variety of exchanges that would be beneficial to both of our communities,” he said. “San Miguel de Allende is a highly recognized and elegant resort and this sisterhood relationship has wonderful possibilities.”

Leading the San Miguel delegation is Mauricio Trejo, mayor of San Miguel de Allende and Ricardo Garrido, president of the Tourism Board and the Business Council. Others making the trip are Cecilio Garza, ex-ambassador, Erwit Reicher, real estate representative and Max Altamirano, restaurant’s representative.